Story/testimonial tips

<Images and videos can really bring case studies to life>

Telling the story

The story is most effective when told from the point of the view of the beneficiary. A direct narrative from someone whose life has changed will be compelling and inspiring. Your impact will be clear, real and engaging. The story should have three key parts:

The case study's initial situation and challenges

What happened to change things

Where they are now as a result. This might include new hopes for the future

Grab the reader

You need to get the reader's attention in the first sentence/paragraph; background info can come in later if necessary. Make your readers want to read on to find out what happened / the full story, using, for example:

emotion

intrigue

shock

surprise

Keep it real / unique

Small, real-life details make a big difference in ensuring your case study stands out as an individual and remains in the memory. They bring life and interest to the story and help affirm how genuine it is. Don't get so bogged down in detail that you forget the story, though! Even just a touch of detail can turn a dull sentence into a vibrant image.

Edit quotes

You don't need to quote people to the word. As long as you keep their general words and, most importantly, retain the meaning of what they're saying, be prepared to tidy up the language. This will help the story read better and have more impact.

<IDEAS FOR CALLS TO ACTION>

Make the most of your inspiring case studies to push visitors to your site towards your most important goals, tying them in with the story. For example:

Latest

Each year, our Day Centre Helps around 1,000 people with all sorts of problems, from mental health issues to finding work, homelessness to budgeting. Watch some clips of the stories we've seen this year and keep this access free for those who need it

Each year, our Day Centre Helps around 1,000 people with all sorts of problems, from mental health issues to finding work, homelessness to budgeting. Watch some of the stories we've seen this year and keep this free for those who need it.

We are not prepared to see vulnerable people homeless on the streets and we believe that everyone has a right to a stable, secure and decent home. We are looking for supporters who believe the same and who will help us to raise the money we need to furnish and equip this house to a good standard. Will you help?

Related

Each year, our Day Centre Helps around 1,000 people with all sorts of problems, from mental health issues to finding work, homelessness to budgeting. Watch some clips of the stories we've seen this year and keep this access free for those who need it

Each year, our Day Centre Helps around 1,000 people with all sorts of problems, from mental health issues to finding work, homelessness to budgeting. Watch some clips of the stories we've seen this year and keep this access free for those who need it

There are lots of misconceptions about how and why people find themselves in difficult situations such as being homeless, battling addiction, without work or unable to put food on the table. Here you'll find the facts.